Tamil actor‑turned‑politician Vijay is set to follow a familiar pattern in Tamil Nadu politics by contesting the upcoming Assembly elections from two constituencies, Perambur in Chennai and Trichy East, a move that places him alongside several prominent state leaders who have previously opted for dual electoral battles.
The decision was announced by Tamil Maanila Congress (TMC), the party of which Vijay is the president. The actor’s entry into the fray from two seats has grabbed attention and drawn comparisons to past political heavyweights like J. Jayalalithaa, late AIADMK leader and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, who contested and won from more than one seat in earlier elections.
Perambur is a traditional political battleground in Chennai, while Trichy East, in central Tamil Nadu, represents a more rural and diverse voter base. Party insiders said Vijay’s dual candidacy is aimed at strengthening TMC’s presence in both urban and semi‑urban regions, tapping into his popularity as a leading film star as well as his growing political appeal.
Several veteran politicians in Tamil Nadu have used the dual seat strategy in previous elections. Leaders believed this approach helped broaden their political reach and provide a safety net in case one contest did not go in their favour. The trend reflects the state’s distinctive electoral culture, where personalities with strong mass appeal often leverage multiple constituencies to maximise impact.
Vijay’s candidature in both Perambur and Trichy East was finalised after consultations within the TMC leadership. Supporters say his dual entry is a signal of confidence and ambition to challenge established parties in the state, including DMK and AIADMK. It also underscores the increasing role film stars continue to play in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.
